Snoring and Sleep Apnoea

Snoring is caused by swelling and excess relaxation of the tongue, throat, and upper airway. Incoming air is then restricted and the soft tissue (fleshy uvula) at the back of the mouth vibrates which produces the characteristic noise of snoring. All of this reduces the oxygen supply to the brain during sleep. Breathing stops for seconds or minutes at a time and then the brain detects a lack of oxygen which prompts a momentary arousal to draw breath.

The individual wakes up momentarily to draw breath. This is a disorder called sleep apnea and although sufferers may experience hundreds of apnea episodes per night, they are unlikely to remember any of them. In fact, if the sufferer lives alone or sleeps separately, they may not be aware of their condition, even after many years.

This Obstructive sleep apnea has been linked to excessive tiredness, depression and reduced resistance to infection. When left untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart attack, hypertension, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, catching colds and even worse. Obstructive sleep apnea can also have a significant impact on quality of life, placing unnecessary strain on relationships between bed partners, family and the work place.

At friendly smiles dental we offer a device that we can specifically design to keep your airways open, allowing a more peaceful and refreshing sleep for everyone.
For further information please phone us on 07 3397 0610